Interview with Marty Hovey ~ Skyline Chili 4- Way Race Participant

I’ve been able to run/slog a few races that have ranged from a 5k to a half marathon. I have such a respect for runners who train for full marathons.

I had the opportunity to ask Marty Hovey, who is running his 50th marathon this weekend at the Flying Pig in Cincinnati, a few questions. His answers will inspire you to start moving!

Marty will participate in the Skyline 4-Way race, by running a 5K, 10K and a full marathon over the weekend. (Another Skyline Chili event at the Flying Pig is the 3-Way race, which comprises a 5K, 10K and half-marathon.)

Here is what the director of marketing for Skyline, Sarah Sicking, had to say about the 3 – Way and 4 -Way races-

This year Skyline Chili is supporting the Flying Pig by sponsoring the 3-Way and 4-Way races.“The Skyline Chili family of operators and employees is thrilled to be part of the Flying Pig Marathon, since both Skyline and the Flying Pig are passionately dedicated to the community. The Skyline 3-Way and 4-Way events are for hundreds of elite athletes like Marty willing to participate in multiple races during the weekend, which we think speaks to the similar intensity that we have in pursuing a quality experience for our customers.”

Here are some questions that I had for Marty.

How long have you been running?

My first marathon was the Flying Pig Marathon in 1999. Before that, I had done some neighborhood 5K and 10K races but nothing longer.

What events are you participating in during the Flying Pig?

Friday evening, the Little Kings Mile. Saturday morning, the Toyota 10k at 8AM and the Tri-State Running Company 5K at 10 AM. Sunday morning, the Flying Pig Marathon. The total number of events will equal 36.5 miles and they qualify me as a participant in the Skyline Chili 4-Way.

What is something you do or think to yourself when you want to give up?

First come the negative thoughts, I’m not going to finish in the time I expected. I’m going to have to walk more than I expected. Then I start working on keeping my posture erect and running form as efficient as I can. I remind myself that I have done this many times before and I will finish. Also, I make sure to have some energy drink at the next opportunity if I don’t have any with me.

What has been your most memorable/challenging race so far?

The Flying Pig Marathon is always a great time from the opening of the expo on Friday to a celebratory dinner Sunday evening. I have been running with groups for over 5 years and there is usually someone doing their first marathon. It is very rewarding to help them finish and have a good experience.

I also did a 200 mile relay last year with 11 others. It was a logistical challenge but a lot of fun spending over 30 hours with my running friends.

What advice would you give to someone who is newer to running?

Just have fun. Don’t go out too fast. Enjoy the crowd. You’ll probably see some friends, be sure to wave to them. Give the kids on the course a high five. Enjoy the scenery. There will probably be places you have never run before.

What motivates you to keep going?

For me running is an easy way to stay fit. I don’t have to count calories. I can do it any time and any place with minimal equipment.

How long/often do you train for races?

This year I’ll do 5-6 marathons, so I am training all the time. I am a pace group leader at Fleet Feet sports, so I am doing a formal training program 2-3 times a year.

When did you begin running multiple races (streaking?)

The Flying Pig Streakers are those who have run all (14) of the Flying Pig Marathons. The 3-way and 4-way events that include 3 races are new to the Pig this year and it is the first time I have done multiple races, especially 2 on the same day.

Do you use any digital media to help you train? (Apps on your phone, etc.)

I have a Garmin watch that tracks my distance and time. It also helps me maintain my 3:1 run:walk ratio that I have been doing for 12 years. The run/walk technique was introduced to me by Jeff Galloway 2000 when he brought his training program to Cincinnati.

What do you hope people know about you?

I am 65 years old and have done 49 marathons in less than 15 years. Running has helped me stay healthy and meet some great people. I plan to run with my friends until I can’t any more, which I expect to be many more years. And of course it’s a thrill to participate in the Skyline 4-Way races for my 50th marathon.

Thanks so much for sharing Marty and good luck!

Ok, I’m inspired! I really have no excuses! I think that we can all be encouraged from Marty to just start moving!

I’ve been given a $25 giftcard to Skyline to giveaway to celebrate the Skyline 4 Way Race!

Congratulations to Vickie Jones for winning the $25 gift card to Skyline Chili!

(Marty really enjoys the 3-way made with beans and rice and

the 3-way potato made with beans and rice.)

To Enter

Comment on this post by sharing if you have run a race before or if running a race is on your list to try (required to enter).

*Bonus entries (comment separately for each one)

Become a fan of the adventure mom on facebook and comment here that you did.

Comments must submitted before by 10am on Wednesday, May 8th, 2013 to be entered.

Winner will be randomly selected by random.org and will be contacted by email and must respond within 24 hrs or a new name will be drawn. Must be 18 or older to enter and be able to drive to the Sprindale location to use the passes.

I ran my first 5k this past weekend at Flying Pig and am working towards running a 4 mile race (Hyde Park Blast) and half marathon in Nashville. I should note that I’ve only begun working out for the first time in 7 years since February!